HAL should consider changing the name to the Marlborodam. Contrary to almost all other cruise lines HAL allows smoking indoors in Casino when it is an operation. With the open area the smoke drifts into other adjacent areas. We also had the misfortune of having a cabin next to a cigar smoker so our veranda was not a getaway. Finally the rear deck of the Lido deck also allows smoking. Only one side has ashtrays but that does not stop smokers from walking around the entire deck smoking away.

Departure in New York was relatively quick and the baggage arrived in the room before 4. The cabin, a Verandah Suite was spacious for 3 people and provided enough storage spaces for clothes. The problem was a large bulge in the carpet in the middle of the cabin that could cause you to trip. The room stewards were the most capable of the entire crew once they understood what you needed. Also it takes a few days to figure out the light switches.

What we noticed in the next few days was the need for maintenance on the ship. On the Lido deck, the ice machine was out of order the entire trip, the coffee machine was working off and on, a number of bathrooms had equipment that was not working. The ship needs an overhaul to bring it to reasonable standards. Having the crew doing work is a mistake. Whoever did painting on our veranda spilled more on the deck and the lifeboat below. Read more